Waldorf Crema
Compact polyphonic string and pad synthesizer
Waldorf Crema is a compact polyphonic synthesizer that combines the iconic warmth of the Streichfett string machine with modern wavetable, FM and virtual-analog synthesis. Designed for creating rich string ensembles, lush layered pads and evolving soundscapes, Crema brings together vintage character, contemporary sound design and intuitive hands-on control in a portable, performance-ready instrument.
At its core, Crema features two independent sound engines: Texture and Lines. The Texture engine offers 24 sound types, combining the original Streichfett string engine with classic Waldorf wavetables and six four-operator FM algorithms. All three synthesis modes benefit from the characteristic Streichfett Ensemble effect, delivering a rich, wide and organic sound.
The Lines engine provides polyphonic virtual-analog synthesis with two detunable oscillators, offering sawtooth and square waveforms for everything from warm, vintage-style tones to bright, expressive leads. Vibrato, pulse-width modulation and stereo tremolo add further movement and character, while dedicated envelopes provide detailed control over the sound.
Crema’s unique Flavour control introduces subtle variations in pitch and waveform, adding natural movement and an organic quality to its sounds. Combined with its advanced arpeggiator, 32-step sequencer with scale mode and MPE compatibility, Crema offers plenty of creative possibilities for both studio production and live performance.
A versatile dual-effects section provides nine effects, including chorus, phaser, flanger, drive, tremolo, delay and reverb, complemented by a dedicated Shimmer reverb for expansive, atmospheric textures. The effects can be routed in series or parallel, while the two sound engines can be layered, played independently or split by note range and MIDI channel for flexible performance setups.
With over 130 factory presets and 360 patch memory slots, Crema offers a broad palette of inspiring sounds right out of the box. Presets can be organised, imported and exported using Waldorf’s free Chutney Librarian software for macOS and Windows.
Despite its extensive sound-design capabilities, Crema remains remarkably compact and lightweight. Its sturdy metal front panel, colourful housing and comprehensive connectivity make it equally suited to the studio, the stage or a mobile setup. USB-C provides power and USB MIDI connectivity, while dedicated stereo audio outputs, a headphone output and MIDI In/Out ensure easy integration into existing workflows.
As the latest addition to Waldorf’s compact synthesizer range alongside Protein, Crema bridges the gap between classic string machine nostalgia and modern electronic sound design. From lush cinematic pads and evolving ambient textures to expressive synth lines and vintage-inspired string sounds, Crema is a versatile instrument designed to spark creativity and bring new depth to any musical setup.
KEY FEATURES
– Two polyphonic sound engines: Texture and Lines
– 24 Texture sound types covering strings, wavetable and FM synthesis
– Classic Waldorf Streichfett string engine and Ensemble effect
– Virtual-analog synthesis with two detunable oscillators
– Flavour control for subtle pitch and waveform variations
– Advanced arpeggiator and 32-step sequencer with scale mode
– Dual-effects section with serial and parallel routing
– Dedicated Shimmer reverb
– MPE compatibility and MIDI CC Learn
– Over 130 factory presets and 360 patch memory slots
– Free Chutney Librarian software for macOS and Windows
– USB-C power and MIDI, DIN-compatible MIDI In/Out and stereo audio outputs
– Compact, lightweight design with a sturdy metal front panel
SPECIFICATIONS
– Sound engines: Texture and Lines
– Texture polyphony: Full polyphony for Strings; 12 voices for Wavetable and FM
– Lines polyphony: 8 voices, with Mono and Legato modes
– Sequencer: Up to 32 steps with scale mode
– Effects: Two effect slots with flexible routing
– Presets: Over 130 factory sounds, 360 memory slots
– Connections: USB-C, mini-TRS MIDI In/Out, stereo audio outputs and headphone output
– Power: USB-powered (power supply not included)
IN THE BOX
– Waldorf Crema synthesizer
– Two mini-TRS-to-DIN MIDI adapters
– USB-C to USB-C cable
– Printed Quick Start Guide